Legally Sound with Richard Reed

Richard Reed solicitors

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed – the podcast where we dive into the intricacies of the law and uncover how the justice system impacts our daily lives. Join us as we break down complex legal topics with the help of experienced legal professionals, making the world of law easier to understand and navigate. From family law to employment law, we’ll explore issues that touch everyone at some point in their lives. Throughout this series, the team from Richard Reed will share their insights, practical advice, and tips from their areas of legal expertise.

  1. Updates to the Employment Rights Act with Kat Moody and Nikki Masterman

    Apr 23

    Updates to the Employment Rights Act with Kat Moody and Nikki Masterman

    Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.  In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Employment Law & Dispute Resolution Associate Solicitor Kat Moody and Founder and CEO of Inspired HR, Nikki Masterman.  Together, they break down the Employment Rights Act 2025 and its staged rollout across 2026 and 2027 – one of the biggest shake‑ups in UK employment law in decades. They explain what’s changing, when it takes effect, and what employers, especially small and medium‑sized businesses, need to be doing now to stay compliant, manage costs and reduce their risk. Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode: National minimum wage increases and common compliance pitfalls.Major reforms to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), including day‑one rights and removal of the lower earnings limit.New day‑one rights for paternity and parental leave.Protecting staff and managing risk.The creation of the Fair Work Agency and what it could mean for inspections and enforcement.Unfair dismissal protection after six months’ service.What employers should be doing now.This episode is essential listening for employers, HR professionals and employees who want a clear, practical guide to how the new Employment Rights Act will affect workplaces and how to get prepared in good time. Get in touch: Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ Phone: 0191 567 0465 Email: info@richardreed.co.uk

    44 min
  2. Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse with Matthew Lockey & Julie Robinson

    11/12/2025

    Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse with Matthew Lockey & Julie Robinson

    Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this important and sensitive episode, we’re raising awareness of domestic abuse, looking at what it really means, the legal protections available, and how community support can help people take those first steps towards safety and recovery. We’re joined by Matthew Lockey, Associate Solicitor at Richard Reed Solicitors, and Julie Robinson, Service Manager at Impact Family Services, who have come together to highlight how legal and emotional support can work hand in hand to make a difference. In this episode, we’ll cover: What domestic abuse really means and how it can take many formsCommon misconceptions and why victims may struggle to seek helpLegal protections available, including injunctions and non-molestation ordersHow Impact Family Services supports individuals and families beyond the legal processHow legal and support services can collaborate to help survivors rebuild their livesThis episode is a reminder that domestic abuse can affect anyone, but no one has to face it alone. If any of the topics discussed in this episode affect you, please reach out for support using the resources below. Get in touch: Richard Reed Solicitors 0191 567 0465 | info@richardreed.co.uk | Impact Family Services Connect: Matthew Lockey: LinkedIn Julie Robinson: LinkedIn Resources: National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24/7) 0808 2000 247 National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV): Free legal help with emergency injunctions and protection orders.Women’s Aid Information, support, and access to local services.Respect Support for those wanting to change abusive behaviour and professionals working with perpetrators.HollieGuard: – Personal safety app that alerts trusted contacts if you’re in danger.Clare’s Law: Check if a partner has a history of abuse.Connected Families CIC: Community support and advocacy for families affected by abuse.Wearside Women in Need (WWiN): Refuge, advice, and support for women and children in Sunderland.Galop: LGBTQ+ anti-abuse charity providing confidential support.

    44 min
  3. The Legal Implications of Cohabitation with Matthew Lockey & Debra Taylor 

    10/01/2025

    The Legal Implications of Cohabitation with Matthew Lockey & Debra Taylor 

    Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Matthew Lockey and Debra Taylor from the Family Law team at Richard Reed Solicitors for an insightful discussion on the legal differences between cohabiting and married couples. With more couples choosing to live together without tying the knot, it’s important to understand the legal implications of each path. What rights do you really have if you're not married? What should you be thinking about when it comes to finances, children, or even separation? Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode: The truth about “common-law marriage”, and why it’s a myth Key legal differences between marriage and cohabitation Protections and agreements you can put in place as a cohabiting couple What happens when children are involved The legal discussions and difficulties around changing cohabitation law How assets are treated depending on your relationship status If you're living with your partner, or thinking about it, this episode is essential listening to help you understand your legal position and protect your future. Get in touch: Richard Reed Solicitors: Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ Phone: 0191 567 0465 Email: info@richardreed.co.uk Connect: Sarah Reid: LinkedIn Matthew Lockey: Matthew.lockey@richardreed.co.uk Debra Taylor: debra.taylor@richardreed.co.uk References: Resolution: Cohabitation Martin Lewis Article: Is being married financially worth it?

    32 min
  4. Making Sense of Residential Jargon with Steven Douglas, Nicola Bennell and Graham Hickey 

    08/27/2025

    Making Sense of Residential Jargon with Steven Douglas, Nicola Bennell and Graham Hickey 

    Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Steven Douglas and Nicola Bennell from Richard Reed Solicitors, and Graham Hickey from First Finance Group, to decode the confusing legal and financial jargon around buying and selling a home. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced mover, the process can be filled with unfamiliar terminology. This conversation unpacks what those key words really mean, why they matter, and how to navigate the property journey with confidence. Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode: Why legal language in property transactions isn’t always client-friendly. Common misunderstandings clients have – and how to avoid them. Key terms to know at each stage of buying a home – from viewing to getting the keys. Practical advice for first-time buyers when handling legal documents. Why it’s important to understand and complete paperwork correctly in the first instance. Tips from the experts on simplifying complex terms for clients. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the terminology in property transactions, this episode will help you feel informed, empowered, and ready for your next move. Get in touch: Richard Reed Solicitors: Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/ Phone: 0191 567 0465 Email: info@richardreed.co.uk First Finance Group: Website: https://www.firstfinancegroup.co.uk/ Connect: Sarah Reid: LinkedIn Steven Douglas: LinkedIn Nicola Bennell: LinkedIn Graham Hickey: LinkedIn Resources: Law Society – Guide to Buying or Selling a Home Money Helper – Mortgage and Home-Buying Advice

    50 min

About

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed – the podcast where we dive into the intricacies of the law and uncover how the justice system impacts our daily lives. Join us as we break down complex legal topics with the help of experienced legal professionals, making the world of law easier to understand and navigate. From family law to employment law, we’ll explore issues that touch everyone at some point in their lives. Throughout this series, the team from Richard Reed will share their insights, practical advice, and tips from their areas of legal expertise.